10+ Best Chapter Books for 7-Year-Old Girls w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect chapter books for 7-year-old girls? Whether you're looking to spark a love of reading in your little one or searching for the next great adventure to keep her hooked, finding the right book can be a game-changer. From whimsical tales to stories of everyday heroines, we've rounded up a variety of captivating reads that are sure to enchant and inspire. Keep reading to discover our top picks for chapter books that will delight any 7-year-old girl!

Fun Chapter Books for 7-Year-Old Girls

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved novel tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages praising Wilbur in her web to persuade the farmer to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that teaches about friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, making complex themes accessible and engaging for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and any child learning about friendship and the value of kindness.

• The Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This series follows siblings Jack and Annie who discover a magical tree house filled with books that transport them through time and space on various adventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: Each book provides a thrilling adventure as well as educational content about different times and cultures, sparking curiosity and a love for history and reading.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and budding history buffs.

• Ivy + Bean by Annie Barrows, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: This series revolves around two unlikely friends, Ivy and Bean, who are complete opposites but team up for various escapades in their neighborhood.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's full of humor and mischief, encouraging readers to appreciate the value of friendships that defy first impressions.
  • Perfect for: Girls who enjoy stories about friendship and playful schemes.

• Junie B. Jones Series by Barbara Park, illustrated by Denise Brunkus
  • Genre(s): Humor, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follow the adventures of Junie B. Jones, a kindergartener and then a first-grader, who navigates the world with much enthusiasm and her own unique views on life.
  • Why we recommend this book: The series is incredibly funny and relatable, presenting everyday situations through the eyes of a lively young girl which helps in developing a joy for reading.
  • Perfect for: Kids who find joy in laughter and learning through the misadventures of a quirky protagonist.

• Nancy Clancy Series by Jane O'Connor, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In this spin-off from the original Fancy Nancy, an older Nancy Clancy takes on the role of a detective with her best friend Bree, solving mysteries in their neighborhood.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery and adventure, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving in a fun and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and fans of mystery stories with a touch of fancy.

Educational Chapter Books for 7-Year-Old Girls

• Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book Series by Herman Parish, illustrated by Lynne Avril
  • Genre(s): Humor, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: The series features young Amelia Bedelia and follows her humorous misadventures due to her literal interpretation of instructions and situations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, vocabulary development, understanding of figurative language and idioms
  • Why we recommend this book: It's hilarious and engaging, helping readers appreciate wordplay and the complexities of language.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love comedy and exploring the nuances of language.

• Zoey and Sassafras by Asia Citro, illustrated by Marion Lindsay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Zoey discovers she can see magical creatures and, with her cat Sassafras, uses science to help them with their problems.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific method, problem-solving, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It uniquely blends science with fantasy, encouraging curiosity and systematic problem solving.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and animal lovers with a flair for fantasy.

• The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Princess Magnolia has a secret—she's also the Princess in Black, a superhero who fights monsters and saves her kingdom.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading fluency, empathy, understanding of dual identities
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers action-packed adventures and promotes empowerment, showing that you can be both a princess and a hero.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy tales of adventure and secret identities.

• Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon
  • Genre(s): Humor, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Follow the imaginative adventures of Dory, also known as "Rascal," as she navigates complex family dynamics and childhood with a wildly creative mind.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, family relationships, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of childhood imagination and the adventures that lie in everyday life.
  • Perfect for: Creative thinkers and anyone who enjoys a good laugh while reading.

• The Never Girls Series by Kiki Thorpe, illustrated by Jana Christy
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Four friends find themselves in Never Land and experience magical adventures with fairies and other mystical beings.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, friendship, imaginative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It transports readers into a world of fantasy and adventure, perfect for sparking imagination.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and fans of fairy tales and magical adventures.

Challenging Chapter Books for 7-Year-Old Girls

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story centers around Matilda, a brilliant and sensitive little girl who uses her extraordinary mental powers to overcome neglectful parents and a cruel school principal.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features rich vocabulary and complex character developments that challenge young readers to think critically about justice and personal strength.
  • Why we recommend this book: Matilda's resilience and intelligence make her a fantastic role model for young girls, promoting the importance of self-reliance and the love of reading.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about triumph over adversity and those who love a touch of magic.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl named Mary Lennox is sent to live at her uncle's remote country estate where she discovers a mysterious and neglected garden that becomes a place of healing for her and her new friends.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative style and historical setting require a higher level of comprehension, along with themes of loss and recovery that are explored in depth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a timeless tale that teaches about the healing power of nature and friendship, encouraging empathy and patience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are drawn to stories of transformation and the mysteries of a hidden garden.

• The BFG by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young girl named Sophie meets the Big Friendly Giant (BFG) who, despite his intimidating appearance, turns out to be a kindhearted soul who is considered an outcast by the other giants because he refuses to eat boys and girls.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book invents a new language, "Gobblefunk," which challenges readers to play with language and enhances their cognitive flexibility.
  • Why we recommend this book: The BFG promotes kindness, empathy, and the importance of standing up for what is right, all wrapped up in a thrilling and magical adventure.
  • Perfect for: Children who love whimsical stories with a strong moral backbone and creative wordplay.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the life of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with two elderly siblings in Prince Edward Island. Her adventures and misadventures as she grows make up the heart of the story.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative uses a rich and descriptive language that requires a higher reading comprehension level, along with themes of identity and belonging.
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's zest for life and her ability to find wonder in the mundane make the book a delightful read that encourages creativity and persistence.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy detailed narratives about growth and self-discovery.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Lauren Child
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Pippi Longstocking is an eccentric, super-strong, and utterly unpredictable girl who lives alone with her horse and her monkey, having adventures and bucking the conventions of how young girls should behave.
  • Why this book is challenging: Pippi's adventures challenge conventional narratives and social norms, encouraging readers to think independently.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging read that promotes independence and self-confidence, showing that it's okay to be different.
  • Perfect for: Independent thinkers and any child with a mischievous streak and a love for adventure.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! Are you looking to help your 7-year-old girl develop some great reading habits with chapter books? Below are some fun and effective exercises that can make reading a habit she'll love and continue to grow with. Let’s dive in!

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a cozy, dedicated space for reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading by providing a comfortable and inviting place.
  • Tips: Let her personalize the space with her favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Book Selection Day
  • What it is: Have a specific day to choose new books to read.
  • How it helps: Builds excitement and anticipation around reading.
  • Tips: Make it a fun outing to a library or bookstore, or a special time browsing online together.

• Read and Discuss
  • What it is: Schedule a daily read-aloud and discussion session.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and allows space to express thoughts and feelings about the story.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions about the plot, characters, and what she guesses will happen next.

• Reading Rewards Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart to track books read and reward milestones.
  • How it helps: Motivates continued reading through a visual progress display and rewards.
  • Tips: Offer small rewards like extra playtime, a small toy, or a choice of the next book.

• Storytelling Time
  • What it is: Encourage her to tell the story back to you in her own words.
  • How it helps: Enhances retention and understanding of the story.
  • Tips: You can use puppets or dress-up clothes to make the storytelling more engaging.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Enroll her in a children’s book club.
  • How it helps: Provides social interaction and exposure to diverse opinions and books.
  • Tips: Choose a club that focuses on age-appropriate books and meets regularly.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Help her set realistic reading goals, like a number of books per month.
  • How it helps: Encourages a habit and gives a sense of achievement.
  • Tips: Review the goals together at the end of each month and celebrate achievements.

These exercises aren't just about reading; they're about building a lifelong love for books and learning. By incorporating these activities, you’ll help your little girl not only improve her reading skills but also find joy and excitement in the pages of her favorite chapter books. Happy reading!